THE ROLE OF DRAWING AND PAINTING IN CHARACTER DESIGN: CURRENT STATE AND DEVELOPMENT IN THE UKRAINIAN DESIGN EDUCATION SYSTEM

Abstract

The article analyzes the role of drawing and painting in shaping character design within the context of contemporary Ukrainian design education. It highlights the importance of academic art training as a foundation for developing visual thinking, creative imagination, and stylization skills, which are essential for professional character design practice. Drawing provides fundamental knowledge of anatomy, perspective, and composition, while painting develops a sense of color, tonal relations, and artistic expressiveness. Based on an analysis of curricula in Ukrainian higher education institutions specializing in design, the current state of character design training is examined, emphasizing both positive tendencies and existing challenges. Special attention is given to the impact of digital technologies and the integration of traditional and digital media in the learning process, which expands the possibilities for creating visual imagery. The article outlines future perspectives for teaching methodologies that combine classical drawing and painting with digital tools, including 2D and 3D graphics, animation, and concept art. The importance of maintaining a balance between traditional artistic disciplines and modern technologies is stressed, as it ensures the formation of comprehensive professional competencies. The study concludes that the systematic combination of drawing and painting with innovative approaches can provide a high level of training for character designers in Ukraine and contribute to the integration of national design education into the global educational and cultural context.